All Blog Articles

NEW SKILLS AND LASTING MEMORIES BUILT AT THE LATEST INDIGENOUS SKILLS WORKSHOP

In late August, the Kw’umut Lelum Youth Advisory Council and the Construction Foundation of BC came together to present an Indigenous Skills workshop to a group of young adults on central Vancouver Island.

The workshop, led by Haida artists, Kristy and James Crawford, saw the youth creating their own Wood Block Relief Prints. Wood Block Relief Printing is a print method that uses wooden blocks to stamp designs onto paper and in the process introduces traditional wood carving techniques, form line drawing, and traditional printing.  The prints created during this workshop featured Northwest Coast form line designs of Eagles and Ravens. 

During the workshop, Kristy and James instructed the youth and gave one-on-one guidance, utilizing wisdom gathered over their years as professional artists. The two artists offered a deeper understanding of safety, tool use and shop related processes. 

“When working with youth, experiential, hands-on learning opportunities create long-term memories,” shared Kristy.  “Holding space for youth to create and express themselves using these traditional techniques is something that is deeply important to me.” 

After a day of woodworking and printing, the workshop participants left with their own custom designed block prints and a set of new skills to carry with them as they go out into the world.

About Kw’umut Lelum & the Kw’umut Lelum Youth Advisory Council

The Kw’umut Lelum Youth Advisory Council (KLYAC) is comprised of a formal “board” of current and former youth in-care, aged 18 – 25, that provide representation and a voice for youth served by Kw’umut Lelum.  

In addition to being a youth advisory, KLYAC provides opportunities for youth to develop and expand on the skills associated with mentorship and leadership through a series of workshops, guest speakers, cultural experiences, and a variety of community partnerships.  Members can also access peer mentorship and job readiness supports.To learn more about Kw’umut Lelum and KLYAC, visit: https://www.kwumut.org/

All Blog Articles